Injured at a Fourth of July Event in Texas? Here’s What You Need to Know

Fireworks, cookouts, and community celebrations are all part of the fun on the Fourth of July—but for some, the night ends in injury instead of memories.

Unfortunately, injuries caused by fireworks, slips and falls, and other hazards are common around Independence Day. If you or a loved one was hurt due to someone else’s negligence—whether at a neighbor’s party or a public celebration—you may be entitled to compensation.

Let’s break down the legal responsibilities around fireworks, property safety, and what to do if you’re injured during a holiday event in Texas.

Fireworks Injuries: Who’s Liable?

In 2024 alone, over 14,700 injuries and 11 deaths were caused by fireworks, according to national reports—a 52% increase from the previous year.¹

In Texas, fireworks are regulated under the Texas Occupations Code § 2154.251, which prohibits:

• Igniting fireworks within 600 feet of schools, hospitals, or churches without permission,

• Using fireworks near flammable materials,

• Throwing fireworks at vehicles or lighting them from inside a car,

• Conducting unauthorized fireworks displays.

If someone violates these laws and their actions result in injury, they can be held legally responsible for damages. This includes:

• Event organizers who fail to hire licensed pyrotechnicians,

• Neighbors who use illegal or unsafe fireworks near guests,

• Firework manufacturers if a defect caused the explosion.

Premises Liability on the Fourth of July

If your injury happened on someone else’s property—such as a backyard party or a public event—premises liability laws may apply. Property owners and event organizers have a duty to keep their spaces reasonably safe.

You may have grounds to file a claim if your injury involved:

• Slip and Falls: Wet decks, cluttered patios, or uneven pavement,

• Burn Injuries: Faulty grills, spilled hot grease, or unsafe fireworks use,

• Drowning or Near-Drowning: Pool injuries due to lack of fencing or supervision,

• Over-Serving Alcohol: If someone became intoxicated on a host’s property and caused a car accident.

What to Do If You’re Injured

1. Get Medical Attention – Seek care immediately, even for minor burns or head injuries. Delayed treatment can weaken a claim and worsen your condition.

2. Report the Incident – Notify the property owner or event staff. Request an incident report if possible.

3. Document Everything – Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any hazards. Collect names of witnesses.

4. Call an Attorney – A personal injury lawyer can help you determine whether someone else’s negligence caused your injuries—and whether you can be compensated.

Injured on the Fourth of July in Texas? Call Shaw!

If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence during a holiday celebration, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency Room Visits

• Medical Bills

• Surgeries and Ongoing Care

• Pain and Suffering

• Property Damage

• Missed Work

• Wrongful Death

• And More

Let’s find out if you have a case—for free.

Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 or use live chat to schedule your no-obligation case evaluation with an experienced Texas injury lawyer. Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in San Antonio and across Texas for over 32 years because we put our clients first.

We look forward to serving you.

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¹CPSC Firework Injury News Release